Driver charged with culpable homicide

THE HILL – Since the article appeared on the website, readers have expressed their anger and shock.

Odette Simpson who lives in a complex adjacent to Plinlimmon Road and East Road has been asking for speed humps to be considered for Plinlimmon Road for a long time. “The speed at which the vehicles race up and down leaves much to be desired.  Trying to reverse out of my gate is a nightmare and my sentiments are shared by many others.  In the past, I have addressed correspondence to JRA department to ascertain whether speed bumps could be considered for Plinlimmon Road.  I was informed that it was not possible being a main road. I find this strange as there are several large speed bumps in East Road, which runs adjacent to the private school,  St Martin’s Primary.

“The children from The Hill High school at the bottom of Plinlimmon Road and Highveld Primary School, who live on Plinlimmon Road, have great difficulty trying to cross the street. It is a death-trap and hazardous for children, the elderly and people in general, who need to use the zebra crossing. The majority of the time the drivers of vehicles totally ignore the zebra crossing, and the children can stand for ages trying to cross. There is also a bus-stop, which people have to get to with great difficulty, as a result of the vehicles speeding to and fro. Another consideration would be to erect a camera as the speed limit of 60kmh is ignored. I would average the speed used by the majority of drivers to be between 100 kmh and 140 kmh and this is no exaggeration.

“I have also sent an email to Ward 56, Clr Dennis Jane asking for his assistance in this matter.”

Clr Jane sent an email on August 21 2013 asking for speed humps to be looked at, to  Director Gerneke, JMPD, who is responsible for speed law enforcement in this area.

Another resident who lives in the area commented, “As a Linmeyer resident, I have witnessed speeding vehicles on this road  often. Many drive down Plinlimmon Road much faster than the 60 kmh speed limit.”

“I only spoke to Clr Jane last week about all the trees in Plinlimmon Road. I think they should be cut down as they are overgrown and at night they cover the street lights. This road is a speed track. I suppose nothing will be done. Our deepest sympathies to the family of the woman who was killed,” said another resident.

Family member, Rachel Barbosa, said, “Our vava will be dearly missed. She was taken away from us in a very tragic manner and it is extremely hard for our family to get through this horrible, horrible time. It’s not fair for her loved ones left behind to go through this. I wouldn’t wish this feeling on anyone. Please drive carefully and get speed humps in that road.”

Leah Barbosa, granddaughter said, “It was my gran who was killed. She was a kind and beautiful lady, who was loving and caring. May she Rest In Peace.”